George Mason University
Fairfax, United States • Founded 1957 • World Rank #496
Overview
Established in 1957, the George Mason University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Fairfax (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Virginia.
Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, George Mason University (GMU) is a very large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. George Mason University (GMU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 67-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 90-99% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
GMU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Planning a visit to George Mason University or following up with admissions? Location and contact details are listed below. Admissions email typically replies within 5–10 business days during peak season.
Academic Details
The academic indicators below give context on how George Mason University operates at scale. A lower staff-to-student ratio generally signals more faculty access, though research-heavy institutions skew the read.
Academic Structures
George Mason University's teaching architecture in the units below. New faculties (formed in the last decade) signal where the institution is investing for the future.
Unit 11 items
- Antonin Scalia Law School
- College of Education and Human Development
- College of Health and Human Services
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences
- College of Science
- College of Visual and Performing Arts
- Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study
- Schar School of Policy and Government
- School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution
- School of Business]
- Volgenau School of Engineering
Programs Offered
George Mason University's programmes, with filter and level-based grouping. The combination of search and tier view makes shortlisting faster across large catalogues.
Bachelor's Degree
71 programmes
At undergraduate level, George Mason University offers 71 programmes. These bachelor's degrees typically open both direct employment pathways and routes into postgraduate specialisation.
Natural Resources Conservation and Research Forestry & Natural Resources
Area Studies Social & Cultural Studies
Communication and Media Studies Communication Studies
Graphic Communications Media Studies & Mass Media
Computer and Information Sciences, General Computer Sciences
Computer Science Computer Sciences
Special Education and Teaching Special Education
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods Education & Teaching
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Education & Teaching
Biomedical/Medical Engineering Bio & Biomedical Engineering
Civil Engineering Civil Engineering & Construction
Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering
Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Mechanical Engineering
Systems Engineering Industrial & Systems Engineering
Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services Linguistics & Language Studies
Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services Family & Consumer Science
English Language and Literature, General English Language Studies
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies English Language Studies
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Liberal Arts
Biology, General Biological Sciences
Neurobiology and Neurosciences Neuroscience
Mathematics Mathematics
Statistics Mathematics
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution Liberal Arts
Mathematics and Computer Science Liberal Arts
Sustainability Studies Liberal Arts
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management Sport and Exercise Science
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness Sport and Exercise Science
Philosophy Philosophy & Ethics
Religion/Religious Studies Philosophy & Ethics
Astronomy and Astrophysics Physics & Astronomy
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology Climate Studies & Meteorology
Chemistry Chemistry
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Earth Sciences & Geology
Physics Physics & Astronomy
Physical Sciences, Other Natural Sciences
Psychology, General Psychology
Criminal Justice and Corrections Criminal Law & Justice
Homeland Security Criminal Law & Justice
Security Science and Technology Criminal Law & Justice
Public Administration Public Administration
Social Work Social Work
Anthropology Social & Cultural Studies
Economics Economics
Geography and Cartography Geography
International Relations and National Security Studies Politics & International Relations
Political Science and Government Politics & International Relations
Sociology Social & Cultural Studies
Visual and Performing Arts, General Visual Arts
Dance Performing Arts
Design and Applied Arts Applied Design
Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft Performing Arts
Film/Video and Photographic Arts Film & Animation
Fine and Studio Arts Visual Arts
Music Music
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions Biomedical & Laboratory Sciences
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions Biomedical & Laboratory Sciences
Public Health Public Health
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions Rehabilitation Sciences
Medical Illustration and Informatics Health Sciences
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Nursing
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other Health Sciences
Business/Commerce, General Business Administration
Business Administration, Management and Operations Business Administration
Accounting and Related Services Accounting
Finance and Financial Management Services Finance, Banking & Insurance
Hospitality Administration/Management Hospitality Management
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Operations Management
Marketing Advertising & Digital Marketing
History History
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Master's Degree
83 programmes
These 83 programmes form George Mason University's master's offering, combining advanced coursework with independent work that signals readiness for leadership or research.
Natural Resources Conservation and Research Forestry & Natural Resources
Area Studies Social & Cultural Studies
Communication and Media Studies Communication Studies
Graphic Communications Media Studies & Mass Media
Computer and Information Sciences, General Computer Sciences
Information Science/Studies Information Systems & Technology
Computer Software and Media Applications Digital Media & Game Development
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications Information Systems & Technology
Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management Information Systems & Technology
Curriculum and Instruction Education & Teaching
Educational Administration and Supervision Educational Leadership
Educational/Instructional Media Design Education & Teaching
Special Education and Teaching Special Education
Student Counseling and Personnel Services Education & Teaching
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods Education & Teaching
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Education & Teaching
Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language Education & Teaching
Biomedical/Medical Engineering Bio & Biomedical Engineering
Civil Engineering Civil Engineering & Construction
Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering
Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering Electrical Engineering
Systems Engineering Industrial & Systems Engineering
Construction Engineering General Engineering
Industrial Engineering Industrial & Systems Engineering
Operations Research General Engineering
Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services Linguistics & Language Studies
Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies Law
Legal Professions and Studies, Other Law
English Language and Literature, General English Language Studies
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies English Language Studies
Literature English Language Studies
Biology, General Biological Sciences
Microbiological Sciences and Immunology Biological Sciences
Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology Biological Sciences
Mathematics Mathematics
Statistics Mathematics
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution Liberal Arts
Mathematics and Computer Science Liberal Arts
International/Globalization Studies Liberal Arts
Dispute Resolution Liberal Arts
Data Analytics Liberal Arts
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other Liberal Arts
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness Sport and Exercise Science
Philosophy Philosophy & Ethics
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology Climate Studies & Meteorology
Chemistry Chemistry
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Earth Sciences & Geology
Physics Physics & Astronomy
Psychology, General Psychology
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology Clinical Psychology
Criminal Justice and Corrections Criminal Law & Justice
Homeland Security Criminal Law & Justice
Security Science and Technology Criminal Law & Justice
Public Administration Public Administration
Public Policy Analysis Public Administration
Social Work Social Work
Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other Public Administration
Anthropology Social & Cultural Studies
Economics Economics
Geography and Cartography Geography
International Relations and National Security Studies Politics & International Relations
Political Science and Government Politics & International Relations
Sociology Social & Cultural Studies
Visual and Performing Arts, General Visual Arts
Design and Applied Arts Applied Design
Fine and Studio Arts Visual Arts
Music Music
Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management Media Management
Health and Medical Administrative Services Healthcare Administration
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions Biomedical & Laboratory Sciences
Public Health Public Health
Medical Illustration and Informatics Health Sciences
Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services Nutrition & Dietetics
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Nursing
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other Health Sciences
Business/Commerce, General Business Administration
Business Administration, Management and Operations Business Administration
Accounting and Related Services Accounting
Finance and Financial Management Services Finance, Banking & Insurance
Human Resources Management and Services Human Resource Management
Management Information Systems and Services IT Management
Real Estate Business Administration
History History
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Doctorate
36 programmes
There are 36 programmes to choose from at George Mason University for doctoral candidates. A PhD or equivalent typically takes three or more years of supervised, independent research.
Natural Resources Conservation and Research Forestry & Natural Resources
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication Public Relations
Computer and Information Sciences, General Computer Sciences
Education, General Education & Teaching
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods Education & Teaching
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Education & Teaching
Biomedical/Medical Engineering Bio & Biomedical Engineering
Civil Engineering Civil Engineering & Construction
Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering Electrical Engineering
Systems Engineering Industrial & Systems Engineering
Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services Linguistics & Language Studies
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies English Language Studies
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Liberal Arts
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology Biochemistry
Microbiological Sciences and Immunology Biological Sciences
Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology Biological Sciences
Neurobiology and Neurosciences Neuroscience
Mathematics Mathematics
Statistics Mathematics
Biological and Physical Sciences Liberal Arts
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution Liberal Arts
Mathematics and Computer Science Liberal Arts
Science, Technology and Society Liberal Arts
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology Climate Studies & Meteorology
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Earth Sciences & Geology
Physics Physics & Astronomy
Psychology, General Psychology
Criminal Justice and Corrections Criminal Law & Justice
Public Policy Analysis Public Administration
Economics Economics
Political Science and Government Politics & International Relations
Sociology Social & Cultural Studies
Music Music
Public Health Public Health
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Nursing
History History
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Professional Doctorate
1 programme
There are 1 programme to choose from at George Mason University for doctoral candidates. A PhD or equivalent typically takes three or more years of supervised, independent research.
Law Law
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Associate, Certificate & Other Qualifications
75 programmes
Alongside its degrees, George Mason University provides 75 programmes at associate, certificate, diploma, and foundation level, typically shorter and more applied in focus.
Area Studies Social & Cultural Studies
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies Social & Cultural Studies
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication Public Relations
Publishing Publishing
Computer and Information Sciences, General Computer Sciences
Computer and Information Sciences, General Computer Sciences
Information Science/Studies Information Systems & Technology
Computer Software and Media Applications Digital Media & Game Development
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications Information Systems & Technology
Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management Information Systems & Technology
Curriculum and Instruction Education & Teaching
Educational Administration and Supervision Educational Leadership
Educational/Instructional Media Design Education & Teaching
Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Education & Teaching
Special Education and Teaching Special Education
Student Counseling and Personnel Services Education & Teaching
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods Education & Teaching
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Education & Teaching
Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language Education & Teaching
Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering Aerospace & Automotive Engineering
Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering
Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering Electrical Engineering
Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering General Engineering
Systems Engineering Industrial & Systems Engineering
Operations Research General Engineering
Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services Linguistics & Language Studies
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics Linguistics & Language Studies
Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services Family & Consumer Science
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies English Language Studies
Biology, General Biological Sciences
Biology, General Biological Sciences
Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences Molecular Biology
Microbiological Sciences and Immunology Biological Sciences
Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology Biological Sciences
Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology Ecology & Conservation
Applied Mathematics Mathematics
Statistics Mathematics
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution Liberal Arts
Mathematics and Computer Science Liberal Arts
Gerontology Liberal Arts
Science, Technology and Society Liberal Arts
Holocaust and Related Studies Liberal Arts
Cognitive Science Liberal Arts
Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis Liberal Arts
Dispute Resolution Liberal Arts
Computational Science Liberal Arts
Sustainability Studies Liberal Arts
Data Analytics Liberal Arts
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other Liberal Arts
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness Sport and Exercise Science
Psychology, General Psychology
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology Clinical Psychology
Homeland Security Criminal Law & Justice
Security Science and Technology Criminal Law & Justice
Public Administration Public Administration
Public Policy Analysis Public Administration
Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other Public Administration
Economics Economics
Geography and Cartography Geography
International Relations and National Security Studies Politics & International Relations
Fine and Studio Arts Visual Arts
Fine and Studio Arts Visual Arts
Visual and Performing Arts, Other Visual Arts
Public Health Public Health
Medical Illustration and Informatics Health Sciences
Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services Nutrition & Dietetics
Health Professions Education, Ethics, and Humanities Health Sciences
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Nursing
Business Administration, Management and Operations Business Administration
Accounting and Related Services Accounting
Accounting and Related Services Accounting
International Business International Business
Management Information Systems and Services IT Management
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Operations Management
History History
No programmes match your filter in this level.
How to apply to George Mason University
Practical steps to apply to George Mason University, suitable as a starting checklist before contacting the admissions team directly.
- 1 Research programmes at George Mason University
Use the programme finder to browse George Mason University's 266 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
- 2 Review admissions criteria
Programme-level requirements at George Mason University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
- 3 Gather supporting documents
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
- 4 Lodge your application
George Mason University processes applications through www.gmu.edu. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
- 5 Confirm receipt and track progress
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (703) 993 1000. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about George Mason University
Common questions students ask about George Mason University — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
How old is George Mason University?
The institution opened in 1957 (approximately 69 years ago).
Where can I find George Mason University?
The institution is located in Fairfax, United States.
Is George Mason University public or private?
George Mason University is a public institution.
How many students does George Mason University have?
The institution has a student body of 30,000-34,999.
Where does George Mason University stand in university rankings?
George Mason University holds rank #496 globally and #99 in United States.
How is George Mason University organised academically?
George Mason University is organised into 11 academic units across its disciplines.
Who recognises George Mason University?
Yes, George Mason University is recognised by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
What is George Mason University's official website?
You can find George Mason University online at www.gmu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Below are the highest-ranked universities in the United States — natural comparison points for George Mason University. Top institutions in the United States typically have the strongest international recognition and graduate-school placement.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Joint research grants among National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) members create funded collaborations that often extend to graduate-student opportunities. The network listed below collaborates regularly with George Mason University.
Faculties at Nearby Universities
If you're weighing George Mason University against other institutions in the area, these neighbouring universities offer overlapping faculties and similar admissions cycles. They are useful for shortlisting based on travel distance or campus environment.
Where Else to Study Liberal Arts
Looking for Liberal Arts programmes beyond George Mason University? Other universities in the United States cover the same discipline. Cross-comparing modules, assessment styles, and faculty profiles is the fastest way to find the right fit.
Universities Often Compared with George Mason University
Selectivity rates (acceptance percentage) cluster around George Mason University for the peer institutions below. Selectivity is one of the more stable signals of institutional positioning over time.
